Opinions of Turkish parents of children with autism spectrum disorder on use of complementary and alternative medicine methods

Abstract

BackgroundThe use of CAMs is increasing in the pediatric population with chronic diseases. Culture may affect parents' choice of CAM. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of using complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Turkey and to evaluate their parents’ these practices and opinions on them. MethodThis exploratory and descriptive study was conducted between January and May 2019 with parents of 109 ASD children living in a province in Turkey. The data were collected using a “Socio-demographic information form” and a “Self-report form about CAM usage.” Numbers, percentages, and chi-square analysis were used to analyze the data. ResultsIt was found that 67.0 % of 109 children with autism used CAMs. It was determined that a total of 12 CAMs were used, and the most popular CAM therapy was spiritual relaxation techniques (prayers) (69.8 %), followed by probiotic supplements (49.3 %), vitamin supplements (38.4 %), equine-assisted therapy (34.2 %), music therapy (31.5 %), gluten-free diets(27.4 %). It was reported that CAM therapies had positive effects on children’s communication, behavior, learning, and health. ConclusionsThe study found that more than half of the Turkish parents with children with autism used CAM therapies. Healthcare providers should be aware of the high prevalence of using CAMs in children with ASD and inform parents about CAMs through regular and continuous training programs based on evidence-based practices.